Skin Growths

What are the common skin growths?

Most people develop skin growths with age. These include seborrhoeic keratoses, skin tags, sebaceous hyperplasia and syringomas.

Seborrhoeic keratoses are small brown warty growths on the face, scalp, chest and back. They are related to age and genetic factors.

Skin tags are often found in plump or pregnant people. They are usually on the neck, armpits or buttocks.

Sebaceous hyperplasia are enlarged oil glands often in people with oily complexions. They are skin coloured small bumps usually on the forehead, nose and cheeks.

Syringomas are small sweat gland growths found below the eyes. There is sometimes a family history and it is more common in women.

How are these growths removed?

Fortunately these growths are quite superficial and can be safely removed as an outpatient procedure with radiosurgery. Topical anaesthetic (numbing ceam) is applied 30-60 minutes before the procedure. The skin usually takes about a week to recover.